It’s found in colours ranging from lime to green, is popular for its mellow, soft shades and is also known by its nickname – The Evening Emerald. Yes, we are referring to this lovely gemstone which also goes by the name ‘Peridot’ and is also the birthstone for people born in the month of August.

This stone is the perfect foil for the self-assured, smooth talking, confident and sometimes overbearing way of the zodiac sign of Leo that people born in this month fall under.

It’s a gemstone that is associated with prosperity, growth, dignity and love. Often gifted to couples celebrating their 16th anniversary, Peridot is also believed to bestow peace and progress to the wearer while simultaneously enhancing loyalty, commitment and harmony.

About The Gemstone:

Peridot is a variety of olivine. It is a yellowish-green, lustrous stone, also called Chrysolite. The stone is of igneous origin, often found in areas of intense of volcanic activity in shades of pale green, olive green and lime.

In times gone by, Egypt had one of the biggest resources of Peridot which was revered there as the – Gem of the Sun God. Contrary to popular perception, the famed Queen Cleopatra was not fond of emeralds but the subtle hues of Peridot – a gem that was said to be very dear to her.

Elsewhere like in Hawaii, Peridot is believed to be the tears of their ancient goddess Pele – owing to its slightly yellowish look. References to this ancient gemstone have also been found in books like the Bible, wherein it’s mentioned as Pitdah – its Hebrew name.

Healing Powers:

The ancients Egyptian priests believed that the Peridot contained the forces of nature and used cups encrusted with this gemstone to achieve communion with their Nature Gods. Pirates also revered this stone as a talisman to ward off evil on the high seas.

Peridot is also believed to heal ailments associated with the lungs, spleen, intestines, lymph and breasts. Amulets with Peridot stones were used in ancient times as a remedy to cure Asthma, Sinus, Thyroid, Eye and Liver infections.

These gemstones are also believed to alleviate depression, anger, stress, jealousy and other negative emotions, while enhancing the confidence and self-esteem of the wearer. The stone is also known to be rejuvenating and invigorating, promoting clarity of thought for the wearer.

Famous Personalities born in August:

Barack Obama. (44th U.S. President) 04 August 1961.

Singer Michael Jackson. 29 August 1958.

Model Kylie Jenner. 25 June 2009.

Model & Actor Cara Delevingue. 10 August 1997.

Actor Jennifer Lawrence. 15 August 1990.

Actor Anna Kendrick. 09 August 1985.

Actor Saif Ali Khan. Aug 16. 1970.

Saint Mother Teresa. Aug 27. 1910.

Actor Kajol. Aug 05. 1974.

Actor Sridevi Kapoor. Aug 13. 1963.

Actor Dalip Singh. Aug 27. 1972.

(Disclaimer: The information provided here is purely for entertainment and reference purposes only.)